Vertical Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation: Step-by-Step Guide
19.12.2016 ... How To Install Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring | DIY Flooring Installation. Lowe's Home Improvement•2.8M views · 15:19 · Go to channel Lowe's...
Installing vinyl plank flooring vertically can transform a standard room into a space that feels larger and more intentional. While most homeowners install planks side by side horizontally, running the planks from floor to ceiling creates a striking visual effect. This technique is particularly effective in mudrooms, entryways, or narrow hallways where you want to draw the eye upward and maximize the perception of space.
Understanding the Vertical Installation Method
The fundamental concept behind vertical installation is exactly what the name implies: placing the vinyl planks on their side so the long edge runs vertically rather than horizontally. Instead of the typical 6 or 12-inch face defining the room's width, you expose the 48 or 60-inch length vertically. This creates tall, uninterrupted lines that guide the eye from the floor to the ceiling, making even the smallest spaces feel dramatically taller and more expansive.
Pre-Installation Planning and Measurement
Before you touch a saw, precise planning is essential to a successful vertical installation. You must carefully calculate the starting point to ensure full planks meet specific endpoints, such as a doorway or a piece of furniture. Begin by measuring the total wall height and the width of the room at multiple points, as walls often have minor imperfections. Calculate how many full planks you will need vertically and determine the required cut length for the starting row to achieve a balanced layout that avoids awkward slivers at the top or bottom.
Tools and Material Requirements
- Tape measure and laser level
- Utility knife and fine-tooth saw or miter saw
- Trowel and suitable vinyl adhesive
- Installation spacers for expansion gaps
- Rubber mallet and pull bar bar
- Seam roller and cleaning supplies
Surface Preparation and Underlayment
Preparation is the cornerstone of a durable installation, regardless of the plank orientation. The subfloor must be perfectly clean, dry, flat, and structurally sound to prevent the planks from shifting or creaking. You should thoroughly sweep and vacuum the area, then inspect for any cracks or unevenness, filling them with appropriate filler. Once the surface is prepared, unroll and align the underlayment, securing it according to the manufacturer's instructions to provide cushioning and moisture resistance.
Starting the First Row
Laying the first row correctly ensures the entire floor remains straight and aligned. You should begin in the most visible corner of the room, often the center of the longest wall, to maintain symmetry. Use your laser level to mark a perfectly straight vertical line on the wall or adjacent wall base. Snap a guideline on the floor or use spacers to maintain the necessary expansion gap between the planks and the wall, remembering that this gap remains consistent regardless of the plank orientation.
The Installation Process Step-by-Step
With the first row planned, you can begin the actual installation. Apply the recommended adhesive to the subfloor using a notched trowel, working in small sections to prevent the glue from drying before the plank is set. Carefully place the first vertical plank into the adhesive, aligning it perfectly with the vertical guideline you established. Use the pull bar and block to gently tap the plank into place, ensuring a tight connection without damaging the edge.
Dealing with Obstacles and Corners
Navigating doorways, cabinets, and corners requires specific techniques to maintain a professional finish. For doorways, you will typically need to measure the doorway height, cut the planks to size with a utility knife or saw, and install a transition strip. When wrapping around corners, you may need to cope the edge of the plank by tracing the shape of the adjacent piece and cutting it precisely to ensure a seamless fit. Consistent use of spacers during these steps is critical to maintain the expansion gap.
Finishing and Final Touches
Once all the planks are installed, the final steps are crucial for a polished look and long-term durability. Run a seam roller over the entire surface to activate the adhesive and ensure a strong bond between the plank and the subfloor. Carefully remove the installation spacers and fill the expansion gap with high-quality caulking or trim, choosing a color that blends seamlessly with the vinyl plank. Finally, allow the adhesive to cure fully according to the manufacturer's recommendations before moving heavy furniture into the room.
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